A spokesperson for the Diocese of Portsmouth said: ‘Portsmouth Cathedral aims to be a space open to everybody. Whenever a public exhibition takes place in a church it is important to consider how it relates to our main purpose of being a place for prayer, reflection, and worship.

‘Initially the paintings were considered to be suitable for the exhibition, but a number of regular cathedral users expressed distress about their presence, and in consultation with The Portsmouth and Hampshire Art Society it was decided to remove them from the exhibition.

‘This decision is not a reflection on the quality of the artist’s work, but on our duty to balance the needs of all those who come to the cathedral.’

Computer science graduate Mr Greenwood, whose goal is to become a professional artist, is now selling the four paintings.

Prices begin at £650 for the smallest, peaking at £875 for the largest.

Interested parties should email joe@greenwoodjoe.co.uk

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